Join Huron Pines for the kickoff of the 2026 piping plover monitoring season. This event welcomes both seasoned monitors and newcomers interested in contributing to conservation efforts along the Lake Huron coastline.

As a volunteer monitor, you'll learn to identify these endangered shorebirds and report sightings to the Great Lakes Piping Plover Conservation Team. Our goal is to increase monitoring coverage along the Lake Huron shoreline to enhance our data collection efforts and help secure the future of these rare birds in Northern Michigan.

What to Expect: During this event, Huron Pines and DNR staff will provide a recap of the 2025 monitoring season, refresh volunteers on the monitoring protocol, and outline what's needed for the 2026 season (May through August). A comprehensive overview of the Great Lakes Piping Plover Monitoring handbook will be provided, giving returning volunteers a helpful refresher and new volunteers the knowledge they need to get started.

After the classroom training, we'll carpool or caravan to Tawas State Park to practice monitoring in the field. This is also a great opportunity to connect with other local volunteers who share your passion for protecting these rare birds.

What to Bring:

• Binoculars and spotting scope (if you have them)

• Comfortable shoes for walking

• Anything to make you comfortable for both classroom and field portions

No prior experience or equipment is required — just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to help!

Come be part of this important conservation initiative protecting piping plovers in Northern Michigan.

This event is hosted by Huron Pines. Huron Pines is leading the effort to inspire lakeshore communities in Michigan to join the Lake Huron Forever initiative.